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  4.  » What does “strict liability” mean for dog bites in New Jersey? 

What does “strict liability” mean for dog bites in New Jersey? 

On Behalf of | Jan 18, 2023 | Dog bites

Dogs are the number one choice for a pet in the USA. Millions of people fill their homes with man’s best friend and look forward to seeing a wagging tail when they come home at the end of the day. 

The issue with dogs is that, no matter how much we think we can trust them, they can bite. Some are even trained to bite on command when used for protection and safety. 

If you get bitten by a dog in New Jersey, what do the laws say about what should happen next? 

Strict liability leaves no room for questions

New Jersey’s law on dog bites makes the owner of the dog liable for the injuries caused and for any subsequent damages claimed as a result. This can be either in a private or public place and there does not need to have been any prior indication that the dog may be vicious. 

As for owners, the law is clear. There is no real defense against your dog biting a person even when you try to restrain them or intervene. The owner of the dog is liable whether or not there was any negligence or carelessness on their behalf and the only thing that really needs to be proven by the victim is that a bite did occur. (There are exceptions, of course, if the dog attacked an intruder or was being purposefully provoked.)

After the dog bite has happened, the animal will be placed in a ten-day quarantine paid for by the owner. At the end of the ten days, the dog will then be assessed to determine if it is healthy and can be returned home. 

Being bitten by a dog can cause both physical and psychological damage. In certain circumstances, you may be entitled to claim compensation for your injuries with the assistance of a legal professional.